A Great Day of Golf: 39th Annual Saint Alphonsus Nampa Open Golf Tournament

September 6, 2023

The weather was perfect for the 148 golfers who participated.

Nearly 300 golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and community members supported the Saint Alphonsus Meals on Wheels program.

The rhythmic swish of a sprinkler, the hushed rustling of grass underfoot, the resounding thwack of golf clubs, bursts of laughter, and the occasional, urgent call of "FORE!" – these were the sounds that enveloped Ridgecrest Golf Club in Nampa on Friday, July 28, 2023 at our 39th Annual Saint Alphonsus Nampa Open Golf Tournament. Nearly 300 golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and community members came together to enjoy a great day of golf while supporting our Saint Alphonsus Meals on Wheels program.

This vital program serves over 50,000 meals annually to nearly 300 low-income homebound and seniors within our local community. A stark 85% of these community members find themselves wrestling with low or very low income levels where even the basics, like access to food, can be formidable challenges to their health.

Tournament golfers teed off at 8:00 am after a welcoming address from Clint Child, President of Saint Alphonsus Medical Center - Nampa. Gratitude was expressed towards the Tournament Title Sponsor EKC Inc. and its President, Brian Ellsworth. Soon after, 148 golfers swiftly embarked on their rounds, filling all 18 holes with spirited play, tent sponsors, engaging on-course games, and a welcoming hospitality tent, sponsored by Still Water Hollow and Ryan and Angie Martin.

As golfers made their way through the course, the sun beamed down, and the camaraderie grew. Conversations flowed, and the day's challenges were met with unwavering determination. Post-round, the clubhouse served as a gathering point and sponsors, golfers and volunteers alike savored a delicious catered lunch, generously provided by Texas Roadhouse. It was a moment to recount the day's adventures and celebrate the spirit of the tournament.

The winners were announced, including this year’s first place team and sponsor 1st Federal Bank. Strategic use of mulligans, strings, and the on-course tent games sponsored by Koenig Distillery and the Caldwell Night Rodeo played a role in this victory.

Yet, beyond the scores and the games, a deeper victory was celebrated. By day's end, nearly $130,000 was raised. This substantial sum was more than just money; it is a lifeline for those in need and a testament to the resilience of community bonds. Finally, it is a reminder that even in the game of golf, the greatest victory lies in giving back to those who need it most.